President William Ruto on Saturday, October 12 announced that the government had commenced the expansion of the Diani Airport.
Through a video clip on the exercise, it was revealed that the exercise was being undertaken to enable more aircraft to operate in the airport based in Kwale County.
Currently, only three aircraft can be parked at the Airport at a go. Through the expansion, the capacity will allow for four more aircraft.
Additionally, the expansion will see an increase in direct flights making it easy for Kenyans to travel from Diani to other airports such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).
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"Currently, people land here instead of in Mombasa because we have direct flights. There will be no wasting of time," Diani Airport Officer in charge Bernadine Mundui was quoted in Ruto's video.
"We have witnessed an increase in passengers and flights taking off."
On the other hand, Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo detailed that the expansion was being done to boost tourism in the area.
Kwale County is the home of reputable beaches such as Diani.
"As the county prepares to host the upcoming Mashujaa Day celebrations, this milestone development will shine a spotlight on Kwale's growing potential, with Diani Airport serving as a gateway to new economic opportunities," the PS stated.
"For the local community, this project is already bringing benefits, creating jobs during construction, and promising to uplift businesses in tourism, hospitality, and local trade."
